A senior Indian Army officer after reviewing the performance of women commanding officers (COs) said that they complain a lot. This report came to the media on November 26.
It is claimed that the report, prepared by Lt Gen Rajiv Puri, who completed his tenure in 17 Corps, was sent in the form of a letter to the Commander-in-Chief of the Eastern Command on 1 October.
Women COs have ego problems, the report said. They celebrate the little things. His behavior remains 'toxic' to juniors. After this report came out, a discussion has started inside and outside the army.
5 feedback on women COs in the report
1. Women commanders less sensitive The report said, “Women COs are less sensitive to their officers, juniors and soldiers. Most women commanders consider any disagreement between themselves and their juniors as defiance of their command. They take all decisions without consulting their team.
2. Not good behavior for juniors Reportedly, a woman commander ordered her Subedar Major (SM) to open the door of her vehicle whenever she arrived. The lady officer stays in her car until the SM comes to open the door.
3. CO takes credit for junior's work Lt Gen Puri wrote in the letter, “On many occasions women COs also address their juniors in disparaging terms, which has spoiled the atmosphere in many units. They take credit for the juniors' work.”
4. Not training like men, means problems The report said, “Male officers go through rigorous training before joining the post of CO. They go through many types of courses. Women don't get as many opportunities. Women don't feel as high pressure as men. Because of this, she doesn't get many opportunities. .able to understand his junior's problems and situations.
5. Power should be given without discrimination between men and women Lt Gen Puri said, “Gender neutrality should be emphasized instead of gender equality. Women should be empowered without discrimination between men and women instead of equal rights. Continuous monitoring of deficiencies in women's work and leadership. A solution should be found.”
In 2022, Lieutenant General Rajeev Puri (then Major General) was awarded the Highly Distinguished Service Medal by President Ram Nath Kovind.
Image Credit: (Divya-Bhaskar): Images/graphics belong to (Divya-Bhaskar).